Member Articles

How to handle a terrible boss

When your boss leaves something to be desired

Oh, the joys of having a boss you can't stand! I can't tell you how many times I had jobs where the sight or sound of my boss would literally make my skin crawl. It took me awhile to realize that I don't thrive well in environments where someone is telling me what to do. This is why I began working for myself.

But what if you have to work in an office and are reporting to someone who makes you dread going into work? Here are some tips on how to survive and thrive:

• Make a list of all of the positive things about your boss -- it helps to shift perspective.

• Get clear on how your boss makes you feel.

• Write down how you would like for your relationship to be with your boss in an ideal world.

I challenge you to set up a meeting with your boss this week to discuss your relationship and use the above as your talking points in the conversation. Start by pointing out the postive things about your boss, "I have so much respect for your knowledge on world markets". Move on to how you your boss makes you feel, "I sometimes feel as though my work is not appreciated or respected". End with how you would like for your relationship to be, "I would love it if we could have weekly instead of daily meetings where I could come to you with my ideas."

The idea is to take control of your career. Complaining without action only leads to frustration. And if all else fails, start looking for your dream job!